Best Moisturiser for Face: How to Choose the Right One for Your Skin Type

Moisturiser's whole job is to replenish and lock in water while backing up your skin's natural barrier; the thing standing between your face and, well, everything. Weather changes, pollution, and even your other active ingredients can all mess up your skin's moisture levels.

Used properly, a moisturiser softens rough texture, calms dryness, and generally makes skin feel more comfortable in its own... skin. And here's the bit people love to ignore: oily skin needs this too. When you strip away too much moisture, oily skin doesn't say "thank you"; it just produces more oil to compensate.

Dry, oily or sensitive–we've got a fix for all skin types. Read on to know more on which moisturiser is the right pick for you.

Do you think there are days when your skin feels more like the Sahara Desert than actual skin, then you should opt for richer moisturisers for dry skin with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and nourishing emollients.

Oily skin folks should befriend a lightweight lotion or a gel-based moisturiser that provides hydration without making your face feel like an oil slick. Now, that's a win win.

Notice that your skin often feels oily around T-zone with dry cheeks? Then call for a lightweight, balanced formula that hydrates the entire face without making oilier areas feel overly greasy.

For those with sensitive skin, carrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides are your go to.

A daily pick for those with normal skin, you need a medium-weight moisturiser that maintains your skin's hydration and supports the skin barrier.

Add these ingredients to your skincare regime, asap!

• Ceramides: These are lipids naturally found in the skin which help support its protective barrier.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring compound in our bodies that attracts and binds water. In skincare, it helps keep the skin youthful-looking and hydrated.
• Glycerin: Another humectant, glycerin draws moisture and helps maintain hydration, making it a versatile ingredient for all skin types.
• Peptides: Peptides are often included in moisturisers targeting signs of ageing as they help smoothen the skin.
• Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 can support the skin barrier, and is a good choice if you have acne-prone skin.
• Squalane: A lightweight emollient that softens the skin and reduces moisture loss without really feeling heavy or greasy.

These formulas and textures are going to save your skin, big time.

Lightweight and refreshing. For those with oily to combination skin type, this hydration hero is a must, minus the grease.

These sit in the middle, as they're fluid enough to feel weightless yet versatile enough to suit nearly everyone.

Richer and more emollient, creams are ideal for dry or dehydrated skin.

I usually reach for ointments and balms when my skin feels extremely dry or needs some extra care. They have a thicker texture that helps lock in moisture and leaves the skin feeling soft and protected..

May the best moisturiser win and become a part of you skincare regime.

You want a moisturiser containing humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid, but also some barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides. A richer cream can also help lock in extra moisture.

Ceramides, peptides, and gentle moisturising ingredients can help maintain a healthier-looking skin barrier.

If your main concern is a lack of radiance, look for a moisturiser that combines hydration with ingredients that support a brighter-looking complexion. Remember that moisturisation works best alongside sunscreen and other targeted products.

Well-hydrated skin can appear smoother and more supple. Moisturisers containing peptides and barrier-supporting ingredients can complement a broader anti-ageing routine.

Lightweight, non-greasy textures only, please. And no, skipping moisturiser altogether is not a valid strategy — see above.

• The Lakmē Peach Milk 2% Pro-Ceramide Barrier Repair Lotion has a lightweight lotion texture and uses pro-ceramides to support the skin barrier. It's a versatile option if you prefer a lighter moisturiser.
• The Lakmē Peach Milk Intense 2% Pro-Ceramide + Peptide Moisturiser combines pro-ceramides and peptides in a moisturising formula designed for more intensive hydration, so it's great if you lean on the drier side.
• The Lakmē Peach Milk 2% Pro-Ceramide + Peptide Créme has a richer cream texture with pro-ceramides and peptides. It is suitable for those who prefer a more nourishing moisturiser.

The correct application can help with the best results. Follow these steps.

Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, oil, and impurities. Pat your skin dry rather than rubbing it vigorously.

If you're using serums or targeted treatments, apply them before moisturiser. Give lightweight products a moment to settle.

Take an appropriate amount of moisturiser and gently spread it across your face and neck. Use light, upward motions without tugging or rubbing the skin excessively.

• Skipping moisturiser because your skin's oily: This, ladies is a no no. Pick a light weight moisturiser that suits your skin, but do not skip this holy grail.
• Using a heavy cream on oily skin: It'll fight you every step of the way.
• Overapplying: More products do not mean better results. At times, less is good. Pick products that suit your skin type.
• Forgetting your neck and décolletage: Your skin doesn't stop at your jawline, so why would your routine?
• Constantly switching moisturisers: Give a product a few weeks before deciding it's not working.
• Following trends over your actual skin type: What worked for someone on your feed might do nothing for you.

We get it, picking the right product can feel exhausting at times with multiple buys and skin testing but we assure you–once you find your pick, it will be there with you for years to come. We have shared tips on how to pick a moisturizer based on your skin type and concern, formulas and mistakes you should avoid. Some of our personal picks have also made it to the list, don't forget to check out.